In the 21st Century, there is much misunderstanding concerning the Holy Spirit.
Many things are attributed to the Holy Spirit that are not necessarily His doing.
Some people even say that they speak to the Holy Spirit or pray to Him. All of these things are because of a misunderstanding of Who the Holy Spirit is and what He does. This book will explain Who the Holy Spirit is and what His function is in connection to the saints of God.
Dr. Roy W. Culley, long-time Instructor at the Texas Baptist Institute and Seminary in Henderson, Texas, wrote in 1978, in his book The Holy Spirit, Ignorance of the Third Person of the Godhead is dishonoring to God and mighty harmful to man. Dishonoring works, immoral activities, and soul damning heresies are boldly carried out by men who in turn attribute them to Holy Spirit leadership. Under the pretense of His holy Name, great abuses have issued from each generation.1
I trust that by the time that the reader finishes this book, a better understanding of the Holy Spirit will be attained.
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Who Is The Holy Spirit?
Understanding the position and the power of the Holy Spirit is an especially important teaching for us to fully grasp. There is a great need to know Who He is, why He is to be followed and how to submit to His power.
The identity of the Holy Spirit has never been in doubt in the Scriptures.
The deity of the Holy Spirit has been a cardinal doctrine of the Christian faith from the beginning. The Scriptures unequivocally teach that there are three co-essential, co-eternal, and co-equal Divine Persons Who comprise the One true Godhead.2
Many have tried to say that the Spirit is only a power. Others have spoken boldly and declared Him as only a manifestation of God. In reality He is all God, just as Jesus is all God. Jesus, in John 14:16, declared that He would send another Comforter of the same kind or just like Himself. Jesus is completely God in the flesh and is now in glory. If then He was to send another like Himself and that other Person is the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit must of necessity be fully God also.
This fact enables us to fully realize that the leadership of the Holy Spirit is the direction of God.
To illustrate that the Holy Spirit is part of the Godhead, several passages of Scripture will be noted that show they are the same. These Scriptures will point out clearly that the Holy Spirit has the same attributes as God.
God is eternal, from everlasting to everlasting, the Alpha and Omega and has no beginning or end. This fact is noticeably clear in the Bible. The Holy Spirit in Hebrews 9:14 is called eternal. This classification sets Him equal with God, for God is eternal.
Hebrews 9:14: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
God is all-present in the universe and so is the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 139:7-10: 7 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
God is all-powerful and so is the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 3:18 relates to us that the Spirit is the energizing force behind the resurrection of Jesus.
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1 Peter 3:18: For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
The Greek word for “quickened” simply means “make alive, give life, quicken.”
God has all-knowledge and I Corinthians 2:9-11 points clearly to the fact that the Spirit allows us to know God. The Spirit must have all-knowledge to have the ability to reveal it to the believer.
1 Corinthians 2:9-11: 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
Now that it has been established that God and the Holy Spirit exist on the same level and that They are equal, why is it so important for us to know this? How can we apply this to our personal lives? Let us look at the practical use of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit.
The principle is set forth that the Holy Spirit has a definite work in the life of a believer. If we realize that the Holy Spirit is God, then His leadership must be followed. If the Holy Spirit is not God or does not possess the same attributes as God, then a believer should refuse to follow. However, the Bible leaves no room for doubt that God and the Holy Spirit are One and the Same.
1 John 5:7: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
Based on this fact, how do we know Who He is and how to follow Him? Jesus said when He departed this earth that another One like Him would come. The Comforter came with the express purpose of helping all believers, most especially those of the New Testament Church.
The only Persons Who have access to the very presence of God are Christ and the Holy Spirit because of their sinlessness. Again, this shows that the Holy Spirit is God.
The practical use of this is the great comfort and knowledge that a believer is not approaching God on his own merit, but through the Spirit. This should enable us to use more faith and trust in life than personal merit.
Normally people tend to put God and the Holy Spirit into two separate beings.
Because God the Father is unseen by the human eye and the Spirit is unseen, but felt by the emotions and our spirit, there is a desire to separate them. It is vital 6
to the life of every child of God that a proper understanding exists. This comprehension allows the believer to enjoy the full benefits of a Spirit-filled life.
To illustrate the fact that this is true, let us look at Acts 5:1-4: 1
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
This is the negative view of what will happen when there is a failure to recognize the Holy Spirit as God. The early church had many who were making contributions of all they had and possessed. Barnabas had just done this and was lauded highly by the church. Then two people, a husband and wife, Ananias and Sapphira, decided they wish to contribute of all they own. This appears to be a commendable act; however, their motive is tainted with sin. These two decided to keep back part for themselves unbeknown to anyone else. Thinking that this would harm no one, they completed their evil deed. However, they failed to understand one thing, that God is Omnipresent, Omniscient and Omnipotent. Even though God was not bodily present, His Spirit was there. Acts 5:3 says they lied to the Holy Spirit, and verse four says they lied to God. This fatal act cost them their lives.
One thing stands clear in these verses, that the Holy Spirit and God are One and the Same. The consequence was the same, and their failure to realize this made no difference.
The positive view of the fact that the Holy Spirit and God are the same can be seen in the inspiration of the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 relates to us that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God.
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Timothy 3:16, 17: 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Peter 1:21 relates to us that the prophets spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. Is there confusion on the issue? The Bible does not indicate any. The harmony of the Bible shows that there is no difference between God and the Spirit.
2 Peter 1:21: For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
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The same principle also applies to finding God’s will for our lives. The saved, Spirit-filled child of God who studies the Bible will not be lead astray from God, but rather into total harmony with Him.
To best understand the power of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, we must understand the need for God in our lives. We must never downplay the importance of the of the leadership of the Spirit as the direct leadership of God.
The leadership of the Spirit is the way we discern the will of God and therefore know what to do in our lives. As we follow the Spirit, faith will increase and more can be done for the cause of Christ.
The Bible gives the promise that the Spirit will help all who believe to understand the Word of God. Since the Scriptures are fully inspired and they are God’s revelation of His will to the believer, they must be followed. One thing stands clear, the Holy Spirit will never lead contrary to God’s will or Word.
In view of this fact, we then must through prayer and study discern the will of God through the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The fact that the Holy Spirit and God are the same should enable us to know definitely what God’s will is and what He expects of us. This does not mean that we will always obey, but only that we have the ability to discern and know what to do.
With the Holy Spirit having all the attributes of God, we must not make the mistake of thinking He is another God. The complexity to trying to understand the Trinity may tend to cloud the clarity of this great truth. The Trinity is not three separate gods but rather One God Who in His infinite power can make Himself know as Father, Son, and Spirit. This must be accepted by faith alone.
The faith that will allow us to accept this will also allow us to understand that the Holy Spirit is indeed God.
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The Guidance of the Holy Spirit
Romans 8:14: For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
One description of the Trinity says that all you will ever know of God is the Father.
All you will ever see of God is the Son. All you will ever feel of God is the Holy Spirit.
Feelings, conviction, or guidance are all terms used in relationship to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It is also necessary to be able to distinguish between them. Just what is it that enables us to know what the Holy Spirit wants in our lives? What method does the Holy Spirit use to make known the will of God?
The question may of whom the Holy Spirit guide will come to mind. The Holy Spirit will guide only those who are qualified to be lead and be under the leadership of the Spirit. So then, the question is, what must a person do to then qualify for His leadership? Like any other spiritual aspect of a person’s life, God has set the requirements, and they must be met. Salvation of the spirit of man and through the forgiveness of sins can only come through the blood of Jesus.
The rebirth of the spirit of man can only be by grace through faith. Romans 8:2: For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. This freedom allows us to be led by the Spirit of God.
The guidance of the Holy Spirit is immediately present in our lives, John 5:24.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. This guidance begins with the assurance of salvation and then is followed with leadership to the waters of scriptural baptism. This immediate guidance is particularly important to the newly saved individual and all should take advantage to teach new Christians in these areas.
After salvation and the administration of baptism and uniting with a New Testament church, the Holy Spirit will lead only as a child of God is willing to follow. The guidance of the Holy Spirit in no way stops us from making a wrong choice. Choices must still be made, and this brings up another qualification.
Only those who are willing to live a Spirit-filled and submitted will be guided properly by the Spirit. The subjection of the flesh and its desires is a constant battle but can be overcome through and with the help of God.
To best understand what the guidance of the Holy Spirit is, it is best to see first what it is not. There are several occasions where the Holy Spirit spoke directly to people. Other occasions the Spirit spoke through an angel. These types of 9
revelations do not occur in our day and age. Today, there are no burning bushes, talking donkeys or some other miraculous manifestations of the Spirit to make His will know.
If these things do not occur today, how then does the Holy Spirit make known His will and guide us? To best discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we must know the inspired Word of God. With a knowledge of the Scriptures, then the Holy Spirit through conviction can let us know if the things being done are right or wrong. The power of prayer and its use should never be discounted in following the guidance of the Spirit. The need of communication with God is an imperative to know in which direction the Spirit is leading. However, please remember that the Spirit will never lead contrary to the Word of God.
Another important element in how the leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit is made know is that of fasting. Today many look at fasting and do not stop to think of its unique spiritual importance. Fasting is generally thought of only in the light that Jesus condemned the Pharisees for doing it wrong. But fasting, when done properly, in private and for the purpose of cleaning the heart of man, and combined with confession of sin, can be very profitable. The early church used it often when discerning the Lord’s will. When Paul and Barnabas were chosen, fasting played an important part in the guidance of the Spirit. The fasting allowed them to set aside the things of the world so that they would be given to the things of the Spirit. Today, if properly used, fasting would enable each child of God to be able to discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit better because their hearts would be attuned to the things of the Spirit and not the things of the world.
Now let us consider the areas of leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
One of the primary purposes of the guidance of the Holy Spirit is to teach.
John 14:26: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Teaching includes the imparting of knowledge from one source to another. The Holy Spirit enables the believer to take the Scripture and as the mind is open to direction, to discern the truth of God’s Word. Through conviction and the revealing of Divine truth, the Holy Spirit gives to man the ability to properly serve God.
I Corinthians 2:9-16: 9But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit 10
searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
For the Spirit as He teaches, allows the believer to search all the truth and know all that he or she desires to know. John 14:6 tells us that Jesus is the Truth: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Since the revealing of truth is a primary concern of the Spirit, then it can be easily said that the guidance of the Spirit will direct the heart of man to Jesus.
Another area of concern in the guidance of the Spirit is that of bringing things to the remembrance of the child of God. The ability to use knowledge that we have learned and to use it properly can be accredited to the guidance of the Spirit.
The unity of the four Gospels even though written by different men from different viewpoints, is one example. There may be some things that Baptists disagree on, but the basic and fundamental doctrines do not change or vary. This also can be attributed to the guidance of the Spirit. The understanding of the truth in the same manner as others can only be a divine way of sending the faith to all the world.
The daily life of the child of God is also an area that the Holy Spirit provides much guidance. The submission of the child of God to the conviction of the Spirit is the key to this area of guidance. The Spirit uses conviction to let us know right and wrong. Thank God for His concern and care for the children that belong to Him.
Let us consider discerning leadership over emotions and personal desires. How do we know which aspect of our lives is being governed by guidance of the Spirit or self-will? How do we overcome emotion with an understanding of God’s will?
These two questions pose for us the most difficult problems in life concerning the guidance of the Spirit.
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If the individual is saved, has followed the Lord in scriptural baptism and is living a submitted Spirit-filled life, then he or she can determine the difference. When self-will is dominant, then the considerations of the Holy Spirit are placed in the background. If the door is closed, the person will go right on in. If, however, one is willing to follow God, then when a door is closed no matter how promising, the individual will accept this in his life.
Emotions are vital to our lives but are not to be overpowering to the Spirit. The key to knowing if it is emotion or the leadership of the Spirit is to be sure that it agrees with the Word of God. Judge your experience by the Word, not vice versa.
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The Holy Spirit and Assurance
Ephesians 1:13, 14: 13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
The Doctrine of Assurance or Security of the Believer is one that should be of utmost importance to all true Baptists. The role of the Holy Spirit in this doctrine is truly vital. The Spirit is the earnest and seal of the salvation of all who are born again. Yet even with many Scriptures to document this doctrine, there are some who still doubt its validity. What is the basis of assurance? Why is it so important to understand? What does it allow the believer to do? Is it a license to do anything that the flesh desires? In each of these questions lies an answer that can make the child of God understand the true meaning of assurance. The purpose of this chapter is to make sure that all understand the role of the Spirit and the joy of what assurance really is.
Let us first examine the meaning of assurance. It means that the believer has security.
Consider John 10:28, 29: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
It means the believer has the knowledge of eternal life.
I John 5:12, 13: 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
It means there is knowledge of being God’s child.
I John 3:1-3: 1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
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The Holy Spirit is the earnest of our salvation. To best understand the fact that the Holy Spirit is the earnest of our salvation, we must understand salvation. The Bible is clear as to the doctrine of salvation. Let us note the following Scriptures as proof of that clarity.
Ephesians 2:8, 9: 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Acts 4:12: Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
John 3:3: Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
These are but a few of the Scriptures that can be cited to prove salvation to the heart of sinful man. Salvation is wholly dependent on the grace of God through Christ and security is in the hands of Christ and the Spirit.
John 10:27-30: 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
30 I and my Father are one.
The role of the Holy Spirit in assurance is that of both earnest and seal of the redemption given by Christ. The earnest is simply the role of grantor of the salvation granted to the child of God by Christ. The word that is translated
“earnest” in our text is a real estate term. It simply means to place a binder on something so that nothing can go wrong or be backed out on by a party. The Holy Spirit is the One that through His indwelling power gives to the child of God the knowledge that nothing will happen to his salvation. The sealing plays almost the same role for the child of God as does the earnest. Both are designed so that each believer will know their position with Christ.
Let us consider the necessity of assurance. It is necessary to know the forgiveness of sins.
I Peter 2:24: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
Assurance is necessary to be able to please God.
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Hebrews 11:5, 6: 5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Assurance is necessary when facing life.
Romans 8:38, 39: 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Let us consider the purpose of assurance. Through the indwelling and revealing power that the Holy Spirit possesses the child of God can know they are saved, but even more so they can know their duties. The purpose of assurance is to allow the believer to be free from worry and anxiety over the condition of his spirit so he can do more in service for God. Spiritual growth and service through love and learning to trust God provide for the believer a purpose in life.
As we have seen, assurance comes by the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 4:30: And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
I John 5:10: He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
Assurance allows the believer to turn his attention away from Satan and worry over lapsing back to a state of separation from God and direct his efforts to better service for the Master.
Galatians 5:13: For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
The Holy Spirit provides this assurance through His presence in the life of the believer. This presence and power also enable the believer to develop talents that will honor our Lord, rather than trying to keep himself saved by only outward actions. It should be comforting to every believer to know that the Holy Spirit is aiding him to better serve the Lord.
Consider the joy of assurance. The Holy Spirit through His presence and power also brings joy through assurance to the life of the believer. The joy may not be 15
an outward display of excitement but more than likely will be a calm knowledge that there is protection given by the Spirit. The joy can be manifested in a number of ways. The knowledge that each person has that his particular life can be useful to the Lord. The realization that joy is an inner peace and tranquility that comes from a life of faith in God.
Part of that joy is because assurance produces the knowledge of Christ’s presence.
Matthew 28:20: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Another reason for that joy is because it produces the fearlessness of death.
John 11:26: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
Assurance also produces the certainty of the resurrection.
Psalm 17:15: As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
In the life of each believer, the Holy Spirit brings an individual joy of knowing that salvation does not depend on what he has or has not done. This particular knowledge allows the believer to concentrate on the development of faith in his life. With the knowledge that salvation depends not on his works but rather on the grace of God and the blood of Jesus.
Without assurance there is no peace.
Colossians 3:15: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Without assurance there is no blessedness.
Psalm 32:1, 2: 1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD
imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
Let us see why assurance can help. The Holy Spirit provides many things that can aid the believer; assurance is one of them. Assurance allows the believer to look totally to God for all his needs. Assurance is the perfect setting for the display of God’s power and strength in the life of His children.
Many people believe that security of the believer is nothing more than a license to sin. This is far from the truth. Assurance allows the Holy Spirit to convict the believer of his/her sin without the fear of eternal death. This then allows each child of God the opportunity to confess that sin or face God’s discipline that is directed toward sin.
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The role of the Holy Spirit is to allow the child of God through full assurance, to turn his full attention to service. This does not mean that the child of God will never sin or will not need to pray. Rather, it is the opportunity for God to show that His power is far greater than that of the world. Because of the influence and the fact that God’s children sin, assurance takes an even greater importance because God can receive glory and honor through it. The demonstration that God can overcome sin and allow the child of God to be useful is a powerful testimony to the world.
Romans 8:35-39: 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
These passages tell the world that nothing can affect the love of God that is in the believer’s heart. This does not tell us that the believer will never lose his/her love or zeal for God. This is the essence of the doctrine of assurance that God will love us even if we fail to love Him in an acceptable manner. The purpose of the Holy Spirit is to convict the believer if this occurs in his/her heart. Also, the Spirit is the Protector of the spirit of man. For the Spirit allows all who know Christ to hide themselves in Him. The passage of Scriptures under consideration here assures all that love of God is far stronger than anything the world can do to the believer.
It can be easily seen that assurance and the Holy Spirit play an important role in the lives of God’s children today. In this world of uncertainty, there remains one thing totally certain, and that is the power of God. When a person places his/her faith and trust in Christ, nothing can take that away. Rather than being taken away, the Spirit of God is always there reconfirming that commitment in the heart of the believer. This type of assurance will allow each one to follow the Lord in the type of growth and maturity that will honor Christ.
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The Holy Spirit and New Life
John 3:1-16: 1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. 9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? 10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? 11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? 13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: 15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
The most crucial decision that a man or woman will make in their lives is that of rebirth or remaining in their sins. The fact that a man must be born again is clearly established in the Scriptures, verses 3 and 7 above. The question that remains is how is this accomplished? Where does it happen? How does the sinner know what to do? What are the results and effects in a person’s life?
These are but a few of the questions this chapter will attempt to answer.
The fact that the Holy Spirit is God’s Agent in the world today places the beginning of new life under His particular realm of power. The responsibility of conviction, drawing, empowering and regeneration all falls under the realm of the Spirit.
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Hopefully, this will also answer how the Holy Spirit does His work in bringing new life.
There is a decision that must be made, life or existence. The question of what the meaning of life is presented often today to the world in many forms. The meaning of life can only be truly determined when men and woman understand the meaning of the word “life” or the expression “to live. Does life mean a mere existence, or a life filled with quality and meaning? How is this quality and meaning given to sinful man?
The Bible is clear on this particular subject. According to Revelation 4:11, man was created by God for His good pleasure, and to have a life that is full of meaning it must include the bringing of good pleasure to God.
Revelation 4:11: Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
But how is this done?
First man must realize that because he is created in the image of God he has a spirit. Because Adam sinned, the spirit of man is apart and separate from the Spirit of God. This truth is brought out by Romans 3:23 and 5:12.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Romans 5:12: Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
To give quality and meaning to life, the spirit of man must be united with the Spirit of God. The only way that this is possible is through the blood of Christ.
This can only occur when there is conviction of the spirit of man by the Holy Spirit of God. This brings man to the position that he must choose between life that comes to him through Christ or the mere existence here on this earth apart from God. This decision is faced by all people, and brings to all a choice that only can be made with the aid of the Holy Spirit.
Let us consider conviction, the work of the Spirit. The words of John 16:8-11, best tell of the work of the Holy Spirit in this area.
John 16:8-11: 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my 19
Father, and ye see me no more; 11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Before new life can be given to anyone they must be made aware of their need; this is the purpose of conviction. This is the responsibility of the Holy Spirit.
The word used here is “reprove,” literally it means to convict. Other meanings that help us to understand the word are: “to convince, to expose and to find fault with;” generally though convict is the best term. However, please do not necessarily accept the common definition of convict. The word is full of meaning and can be expanded in this manner: “to convict or convince with such effective power as to bring one to the place where they MUST make a decision to confess or deny Christ.” This is the work that the Holy Spirit has been assigned to do to the heart of men. The Spirit cannot make a man believe but can bring him to the point of total realization of his need.
The use of conviction comes in three areas in the life of men. The Holy Spirit takes full advantage of them all. The first area of conviction that the Holy Spirit uses is to expose man to his own sins. Sin separates the spirit of man from the Spirit of God. Sin is the failure to meet God’s standard of righteousness.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
The sharpness of this can be seen by man as the Spirit reveals to him the righteousness of God. The failure of man to believe and accept Christ is the greatest tragedy in life, but the Spirit clearly shows the way to him the way of new life, as it reveals man’s sin.
The second area of conviction is that of the Spirit exposing the sin of man to the righteousness of God. When the Spirit reveals to the sinner the love of God expressed to him through the Son, the exposure of man’s failure is accented.
Compared to the righteousness of Christ the righteousness of man is as filthy rags. This allows men to see for themselves their sin, and the Holy Spirit has once again accomplished its task.
The third area of conviction is that of exposing judgment. John 3:18 tells that men are already condemned or judged because of the failure to believe.
John 3:18: He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
When the Holy Spirit through the preaching of the gospel can expose men to the fate of Satan, they can then see the need of Christ and the putting off of the old man. The work of the Holy Spirit in these three areas enables men to be aware of their need. The conviction that is placed upon them is done so to draw them to Christ and allow them to live through Him.
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The conviction work of the Holy Spirit brings about repentance. Repentance is so important that I believe we need to consider it in detail. Without repentance there is no salvation. The Holy Spirit would never leave anything undone that was necessary for salvation, therefore, it behooves us to consider Biblical repentance.
There are three passages of Scripture that are necessary to consider concerning repentance.
Acts 3:19: Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
Mark 1:15: And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Acts 20:21: Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
There are some questions must be asked, "Is church attendance alone proof of salvation?" Is praying the "sinner’s prayer" proof of Biblical salvation? If there is no spiritual fruit, can there be a true conversion?
If repentance is the very thing that brings about a true conversion, then what is true repentance? Vine's Expository Dictionary says that repentance means: “To change one's mind or purpose. In the New Testament, repentance is always a change for the better and always repentance from sin. Biblical repentance is changing one's mind about sin, the Saviour, and the Scriptures, which brings about a great change of direction in one’s life.
Repentance and faith are inseparable, and the Holy Spirit brings about both of these. With conviction, the Holy Spirit brings an awareness of sin to the individual.
II Corinthians 7:10: For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
The new life is the work of the Spirit after rebirth. Once that conviction has come and man has accepted Christ as personal Savior, he becomes a new creature or creation.
II Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
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This being a new creation brings many new responsibilities, but also many new assurances to life. When a person has been reborn, the work of the Spirit is not over but is only really just beginning.
At the point of rebirth of the believer is indwelled by the Spirit from that moment on in life. The first guidance that a new believer will receive is to the waters of scriptural baptism. From this point on the Spirit that gave new life will help the believer to enhance that life through learning and growth.
When the new heart is created within the sinner, many things begin to happen.
John 10:10: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
The Holy Spirit has been the creating force in the life of the believer. Life has been given, not just a mere existence but life with meaning. Life when properly developed can be filled with the quality of bringing good pleasure to our Lord.
The life that is filled with abundance is also filled with assurance. One of the great works of the holy Spirit in giving new life is that of assurance. To know that you are passed from death unto life and that you can never be separate and apart from God in the spirit again is great comfort. This enables each believer to serve and do his/her best without the fear of Satan stealing his/her salvation.
One of the best aspects of new life in the heart of man is the realization that we can share it with others. The Spirit that gave each believer life will give it to anyone that will but believe. The conviction of the Holy Spirit accompanies the preaching of the gospel wherever it is done. This great ability of God to do this through His Spirit allows each believer the opportunity to personally know the joy of leading someone to the Lord. Without assurance there can be no true witnessing.
Acts 8:35: Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
The drawing power and conviction that the Holy Spirit has upon the heart of the believer does not stop at salvation. It continues so that each child of God will know the will of God in his/her life and that all will know the fullness of the joy of Christ. Another important function of the Spirit is that He provides direct access to God.
This access to God is vitally important because, unfortunately, not long after salvation, the world begins to creep in again. The “salvation experience” begins to fade and the believer begins to fall back into the old ways. The Holy Spirit’s convicting power begins again to bring the now-believer back to repentance.
This is not the repentance toward salvation, but repentance because of sins committed in daily living and eventually turning one’s back on God. The Holy 22
Spirit begins to make the believer to realize that there is sin in his/her life and that something needs to be done.
Repentance brings about contrition. Contrition is a regretting or sorrow over sin as a result of being convicted. Contrition is not being sorry because one has been caught, because one has caused pain or sorrow, because one cannot continue any longer in sin, being sorry that one’s plans containing sinful motives did not pan out.
The New Testament informs us of at least three things involved in contrition.
Contrition always involves a broken heart, a broken spirit, and a broken will.
Repentance also brings about confession and forsaking of sin, an acknowledging and turning from sin. Many people confess and hit the altar out of “guilt,” not repentance. Yet, the Scriptures are so very plain on this subject.
Acts 26:18-20: 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: 20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
I Thessalonians 1:9: For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;
Repentance also brings about conversion. Conversion is the act of the Holy Spirit whereby He changes the repentant sinner from one state or condition into another. Righteous living always follows real repentance. Failure or refusal to turn from sin indicates the lack of real repentance. Though moral living will not affect conversion, moral living will follow repentance and conversion.
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The Holy Spirit and Effective Praying
Romans 8:26: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Prayer is the most important tool in the life of a child of God. For this reason alone, every believer should have an effective prayer life. However, many do not.
Why? Probably because no one ever took the time to teach them to pray or more specially to pray effectively. Every believer should ask themselves how they were taught to pray. Where and by whom were we taught? Were we taught to pray effectively or just to pray in public?
Prayer is to important to our personal welfare with God to be treated so lightly.
Prayer needs to be effective, fervent, done in a manner that is proper and with a proper motive. Prayer needs to follow the pattern given by the Holy Spirit to be effective. For prayer allows the child of God to know the Father, but even more, it allows the Father to know our hearts. This chapter is designed to help each believer to learn to pray and develop a regular prayer habit.
For the believer to have an effective prayer life he/she must have a pattern to follow.
Jesus gave to His disciples a pattern of prayer. [Please see the author’s other books
The Lord’s Prayer and The Prayers of Jesus for an in-depth study on prayer.] He taught them how to prayer, which was their desire. In His sermon on the mount, Jesus provided a pattern.
Matthew 6:9-13: 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11
Give us this day our daily bread. 12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
This sets forth the pattern for effective praying in the life of the believer. First, there is the acknowledgment of Who God is, “Our Father.” It is necessary for each one to understand this peculiar relationship that he/she has with God.
Second is the reverence taught by the statement “Hallowed be thy name.”
Reverence and fear of God are key elements to effective praying. Without the understanding of the power and love that God has for and toward man. The prayers of a believer could be rendered ineffective. Third is the recognition that 24
it is God’s will that is to “be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Each believer must answer the question, how much of God’s will is done in Heaven. The proper answer puts into perspective the personal desires that an individual might have.
These all put God in His correct position and man in his. Learning to pray involves understanding this totally.
The next two parts of the pattern place even more emphasis on the need to learn to pray. For most believers, prayer is used to ask for blessings. Please not that up until this point the prayer has been directed in a total spiritual realm. The next statement in the prayer is “Give us this day our daily bread.” This is the first and only aspect of the prayer that deals with material needs. This should show us where our emphasis should be. The final part of the prayer places a clear conscience and heart as a requirement for a proper pattern of prayer. The believer is told to forgive others as he/she is forgiven. To pray effectively, we must be willing to learn to overlook the faults of others, and love them as Christ loves them. This pattern of prayer if followed, will give to each of us a basis from which to build an effective prayer life.
Jesus gives to each disciple a pattern to follow so they might learn to pray. How then do we put this pattern to practical use? Each must learn to pray by and through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:26: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
The Holy Spirit will guide us to follow the proper pattern of prayer. The Holy Spirit will by His power allow us that are sincere and offering a prayer of faith to be heard by the Father.
There must also be, on our part, a continual asking of the Lord. The fervent and constant prayer is a key element in learning how to pray.
Matthew 7:7-11: 7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
The words of Jesus in these passages teach us that asking, seeking, and knocking are to be done without ceasing and continually. So that the passages are not misunderstood, this is not a badgering type of prayer, nor does it mean that God 25
does not hear the first time a prayer is offered. Rather, it is an admonition for us to ask by faith believing that God will provide according to His will. A continual type of prayer is an effective prayer.
Another element in learning how to pray is praying in God’s will and learning to accept God’s will. Much to the surprise of many believers, God really does answer prayers. When He does they are according to His will. The hardest thing for us to learn in praying is that no matter the desire that we may have, all things that are petitioned to God must be according to His will. If they are not, they may not be answered and then there is a tendency to blame God for not answering. Or even worse, the prayers may be answered and then the believer would still blame God, for the particular thing asked for may not have been for the best. Learning to accept God’s will is not difficult when we take the time to examine God’s Word before we pray.
I Thessalonians 5:17: Pray without ceasing.
This very brief statement on the time of prayer is at first glance a little frightening.
“Without ceasing,” however, does not mean never ending. What it does mean is to be in a never-ending attitude and condition of heart that we can pray at any given time. The time to pray for us takes on a new light when considered from the viewpoint of being ever ready to pray.
The practical side to the problem of a time to pray may give to each us a twinge of heart. The Bible speaks of Daniel praying three times a day, and when we think of our schedules, we wonder how we will ever find the time to pray three times in a twenty-four-hour time frame. However, we must look at the problem from a practical view. How and where can we find the time to pray each day?
There are many suggestions that can be made. Some prefer early morning, others late at night. Whatever time frame suits each individual is their business.
The important thing is that we should be ready at all times to pray. The amount of time spent can be great, but if that time is effective or without power it is wasted.
The time element in prayer is one that often leads to our prayer life becoming dry. As we set aside quality time to pray alone, remember that it must be effective. To be effective, it must be a prayer filled with faith. It must be a prayer that praises and acknowledges God as Father and Lord. It must be a prayer that is free from selfish motives. The amount of time is not as important as the quality of time.
The power of the believer’s prayer life will be an important factor in its expansion. The interesting thing about prayer is that once we set aside time for it and see that it works, more time becomes available. The strength of our relationship with Jesus depends on our ability to pray in an effective manner. As 26
we learn to follow the pattern set forth in the Scripture and give ourselves wholly by faith to Him, then we will be altered by the power of prayer.
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The Holy Spirit and the Bible
II Peter 1:19-21: 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
II Timothy 3:16, 17: 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
When we visit a library and look at the bookshelves, we become overwhelmed at the number of books. Countless thousands and millions of books have been published across the centuries.
About eight hundred years before Christ, Solomon wrote that “of making many books there is no end.” Wonder what he would think today if he could see the libraries of the world? Millions and billions of books are in existence. And yet, the one book that is greater than all others is the Bible. God’s Word is beyond compare. It is not the longest book ever written, but it is the greatest. About 40
authors from Moses to John the Apostle during one thousand four hundred years wrote God’s Word.
Many names have been given to controversies concerning the Bible and its role in life today. Yet no matter the name, each seems to try to do their best to shatter the faith of many in the Word of God. At the center of our faith and confidence is the soundness of the Scriptures. Without total reliability of the Bible, the faith of God’s people could be destroyed.
The soundness of the Bible is without question to those willing to follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The testimony of the Scriptures themselves, as well as their unwavering truth in every area of life, is beyond dispute.
The Bible is unique. It is inexhaustible. A Roman fairy tale tells about a lady who had a gold coin in her purse. Every time she spent that coin, another one took its place. We do not exhaust the wealth of the Word of God. Some poet wrote the lines about the Bible: “Thy Word is like a deep, deep mine; and jewels rich and rare, are hidden in its mighty depths, for every searcher there.” Look at what Paul wrote about the Scriptures.
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II Timothy 3:16 states, All Scripture is given by inspiration of God. The words
“all Scripture” uses in the Greek text a word “pan” which means every part or all of the Scripture. All is “God-breathed.”
About 2,600 times words such as “Thus saith the Lord” or similar expressions are given. More than 500 times in the N.T. affirmation words are given to the divine inspiration of the Scriptures. Jesus mentioned the truth that the Bible is God’s inspired Word. And so did Paul and John and the other New Testament writers.
Simon Peter wrote in 2 Peter 1:21 that Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. That word “moved” has the meaning of being “carried along.” That is, the prophets and other writers spoke and wrote under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We have seen kites flying in the air. The person who is “flying his or her kite” has a string attached to the kite. As the wind blows the kite moves about in the air or sky. We may see a log that floats down a river.
That log “floats” or moves according to the movement of the water.
Thus, the writers of the Bible have written as the Spirit of God moved them along.
They wrote as the Holy Spirit inspired them to write. God’s Spirit used people of different backgrounds and different educational levels. They did not write in the same way, but God used them as His instruments to convey His message. We therefore have God’s inspired and “God-breathed” message that is a “perfect treasure” from God.
We note an interesting fact in the II Timothy text that says, All Scripture. That includes everything from Genesis to Revelation. And the last book of the Bible is the “stopping point.” God called those who were eyewitnesses of Jesus to write His Word. Any word that comes as another “revelation” from God that proposes it to be equal to or superior to the Bible is pure falsehood. The Book of Mormon, the Koran, and other writings are not God’s Word.
Every part of God’s Word is His Word. The Bible gives all the truth that mankind ever needs from creation to consummation. We believe the creation story. If we think and reason we know that the complex universe never came about by a
“fortuitous concourse of atoms.” Nor did the universe come about by a
“primordial ooze,” nor by an unexplainable, unintelligible “Big Bang.” Order is found throughout the universe. The countless constellations and the countless stars in every constellation show order and design that could never have “just happened.” A designer stands behind the designed; a Creator has put His stamp upon the creation.
We believe all of God’s Word is divinely inspired. The story of man’s direct creation by God, the story of the Fall, the story of the Flood, of Abraham, of Moses, of David, and of Jonah. Do we believe that story of Jonah? Of course, we do!
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Early in the 19th century, a few fishermen off the coast of Key West, Florida, anded a big “sea monster.” They struggled for two days and two nights before they finally got that fish to the shore. They had put nine harpoons into his body, had shot him 150 times, and had struggled with him for 48 hours. The fish had crushed the propeller on the yacht, and had fought the fishermen until he died.
The fish weighed 3,000 pounds, measured 45 feet in length, had a mouth that was two- and one-half feet wide, and skin that was three inches thick. Inside him was another fish that weighed 1,500 pounds. That sea monster would not have had any problems swallowing a man like Jonah!
Evidently Jesus believed that story and compared Jonah’s story to His own death, burial, and resurrection (Matthew 12:41). The writings of the Bible are God’s Word!
Matthew 12:41: The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.
With this being said, it is no wonder that the Bible has a great impact. II Timothy 3:14-17 clearly states that the Word of God is profitable to the believer.
II Timothy 3:14-17: 14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
To be profitable, we must know what is in the Word and how to use it. This is done by submitting ourselves to the Holy Spirit and following the admonition of Romans 10:17.
Romans 10:17: So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
To show the importance of hearing, let us note Hebrews 4:2.
Hebrews 4:2: For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.
From these two passages, it should be obvious that two elements are involved in the Scriptures being profitable. First is the preaching of the Word in truth and second is the listening of the believer to the words spoken.
The Holy Spirit has a role in each of these mentioned actions needed for the full impact of the Word. Paul told young Timothy to preach the Word; today, 30
preachers are to preach the Word. The Holy Spirit, because of His work in inspiration of the Bible, allows the truth of God to be known to these men as they study. When a pastor follows the direction of the Holy Spirit in preparing messages and lessons, both he and the listener will profit. As the believer listens to the Word, the responsibility of listening by faith becomes vital. Without mixing the Word with faith and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide, the believer will benefit less. Not only did the Holy Spirit inspire the Word but He also aids in its preaching and its reception even today.
The impact of the Bible in our lives can be clearly understood by noticing the terms that the Holy Spirit used to describe the Bible. The Spirit inspired the writers to call the Word of God a fire, a hammer, a lamp, and a sharp two-edged sword. These items should enable us to see the necessity of the power of the Word. No one should be amazed when the preaching of the Gospel cuts to the spiritual quick. These terms with the power of the Holy Spirit’s conviction behind them show how God’s Word can have an impact on the life of the child of God.
All of this shows that the Bible is profitable for teaching. The words of Paul in the Timothy text state that the Scriptures are profitable for doctrine. That is, the Bible has great benefits for us. The Scriptures are worthwhile and priceless.
Even though all the religious teaching from the Scriptures may be embraced in this expression of “doctrine,” we especially give attention to the doctrine of Jesus.
The Bible is a “Jesus Book.” God’s Word tells about Jesus from Genesis to Revelation. We read hundreds of prophecies about Jesus as God’s Son and our Redeemer. All through the writings of Moses, the Psalms, prophets, and wisdom literature, truths about Jesus are given.
The New Testament gives support to all the O.T. Scriptures about Jesus. He came as the eternal Son of God. He was virgin-born, lived a sinless life, and had a threeyear ministry that never has had an equal. Jesus died on the cross for the sins of mankind; He was buried, rose again, ascended to heaven, and is interceding for us today. Yes, the Bible is God’s book that is full of teachings that are God-inspired and profitable for us.
The Bible also informs and teaches us of Creation, Satan, the Fall of man, Redemption through Christ, the Holy Spirit who came to live permanently within the believers, the body of Christ and the Church of the living God, of Heaven and Hell - - all truth that we need to know has been placed in God’s holy, inspired Word. The Bible has our “once for all” message.
As the believer learns to listen by faith to the Word of God, another interesting thing must take place in the heart. The willingness to apply what is learned is the next act of faith and following the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Since the 31
Bible is the sole authority on the spiritual life of the believer, it behooves every one of us to follow it. How do we learn to apply the Word of life?
One of the requirements for applying the Word to life is the complete understanding that the Bible is always correct. The greatest harm will come when we refuse to follow God’s Word. Many times, it may be easier to follow what each think best, but in reality it will cause the greater harm. The next requirement is one that calls for a combination of things in our lives. Study, prayer, and submission to the Holy Spirit all go hand in hand in learning to apply God’s Word to life. If we do not know what is in the Word or refuse to communicate with the Father or follow His directions, how can we apply the principles to our lives?
As we learn the truths of God’s Word, we need to remember to see how the truths fit life today. We may know the letter of the Word, but without a knowledge of the Spirit, it will kill our power with God and others. An example of this is best noted in I Corinthians 8. In this chapter, Paul seeks to solve the problem between the Jewish and Gentile factions in the church over the eating of meats offered to idols. Today, this does not create many problems in churches, however, the principle of not offending a brother or placing a stumbling-block in front of a brother can be applied to many modern situations. Now if only the letter of the Word was followed, chapter 8 would not help, but since we can understand the Spirit, it can be beneficial. The benefit can be accented by the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The ability to make these types of applications is to me another proof of the inspiration of the Bible and its need in our world today.
Learning to apply God’s Word requires a thorough knowledge of the Word. One of the saddest parts of Christian life today is the number of people that do not know God’s Word. Study of the Word is an imperative to following and submitting to the Holy Spirit’s leadership. We should adopt a plan in our heart to study and to memorize God’s Word. Psalm 119:11 reads, Thy word have I hid in my heart,
that I might not sin against thee. Can each one of us say this passage and mean it?
The text in II Timothy states that the Scriptures “are profitable…for correction.”
The word in the Greek means “conviction.” That is, the Bible shows or leads us to the truth. God’s Word impresses us with what is right. It shows us the way to life.
Paul wrote to Timothy about that young believer’s personal faith. In verse 13 of the writing in Second Timothy chapter three the statement is given that Timothy learned the Scriptures from his youth which led him to the Savior and salvation.
That is what the Word of God does. God’s Word points us to Jesus who is the 32
one and only world Savior and Redeemer. The Holy Spirit takes the Word of God and uses it to point us to Jesus.
William Barclay is known for his set of commentaries on the New Testament.
That scholar taught at Edinburgh University in Scotland for many years. Barclay included a beautiful story in his commentary on these verses of Scripture.
A “colporteur” or salesman of religious writings was going through some forests of Sicily, Italy, one night. A robber stopped him. The man didn’t have much money and the robber said, “I’m starting a fire, and you toss your small books in this fire.”
The Christian salesman asked if he could read a brief passage from a few of the writings before throwing those writings in the fire. When given that privilege, the man read Psalms 23 from one book. The robber said, “Don’t burn that one. Give it to me.”
Another passage was read about the “Good Samaritan.” The robber took that one. The passage on love from First Corinthians chapter 13 was read. The robber said, “Give me that one, too.” In fact, the robber said, “Give me all your books,” and none were burned. He rode off into the black forest.
A few years later that man had become converted and had begun preaching the gospel because God’s Word had brought him under conviction. The “reproof” that a person needs today is the conviction from God’s Word by the Holy Spirit. God’s Word is the best book of all because it is used of God to bring conviction to the truth.
There are two things that are important to the reinforcement of the Scriptures.
The first is the constant repetition of the Bible and its truths in our hearts and minds. Deuteronomy 6:6, 7, gives us an excellent method to repeat the truths of God’s Word to children and even to our own heart.
Deuteronomy 6:6, 7: 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
Many say that repetition is not the best. I ask this question; how did you learn the multiplication tables in school? By memorization, of course! Now, how much more important is the Word of God to the believer and his children? There is a great need for this type of teaching. The great benefit is that through the leadership of the Spirit these often-taught truths will become a part of daily life.
Think of the comfort this could bring to many distraught hearts.
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Another aspect of reinforcement is that of daily practice of the truths of the Bible. Basic honesty, love, care, hope, witnessing, and many other qualities of the Christian must be put to use daily. Without their use, the power of the testimony of the believer cannot be awakened. Also, when they are used each day, the Holy Spirit can use them to show the lost that there is power in God’s Word and message.
Everyone needs to know that there is a right way of life and a wrong way of life.
God’s Word is His “plumb line” to show us the right way to live. Amos was an Old Testament prophet. He talked about the plumb line, which was a rope, or cord that had a weight on an end of it. The cord could be held up against a wall that was under construction. The weight at the end of the line carried the line straight toward the ground. That indicated if the wall was straight or not.
God’s Word is to help us see that which is right in life. We need to “throw away”
what does not show itself to be right. People in Ephesus in Paul’s day “burned their magical books” because those writings were corrupt. Much that is seen on television is little more than garbage. Many books and magazines need to be burned. Most of the world’s music is not “righteous.” It is corrupt. That kind of pollution does not need to enter lives and corrupt and ruin people. We need instruction in righteousness.
We need to hear again passages such as Romans 12:1-2.
Romans 12:1, 2: 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
We need to give emphasis to Colossians 3:1-2 about “being raised with Christ and seeking that which is above.”
Colossians 3:1, 2: 1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
We need to hear again the writings of John in 1 John 2:15-17 about the lusts of the flesh, eyes, and world that ruins life. Instruction in rightness is needed in our day.
The Bible tells about the “royal road of life.”
I John 2:15-17: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, 34
and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
The Holy Spirit uses the Bible to challenge each believer to become mature. The Timothy text states that the Christian needs to “become mature.” That is, our lives need to grow and develop. 2 Timothy 3:17 states, that the man of God may be
perfect. That word “perfect” means full grown or mature in one’s faith. We need this spiritual growth!
Divisions take place because of the lack of maturity. We see squabbling and disagreements and fighting taking place because “leaders” are not mature. Each one wants to be “boss.” We want preeminent places and power. We have people who are in pulpits who need to be in the cradle-roll departments in church and denominational life.
God’s Word when ingested and absorbed and lived makes us mature. Job 23:12
needs to be a part of our spiritual diet. And, so does Jeremiah 15:16 and so does 1 Peter 2:2-3. We do not need to be like the “saints” of Corinth who are well described by Paul in that third chapter of his first letter. And yet, that is where so many live today. God’s Word makes us grown up servants of Christ and of each other.
Job 23:12: Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.
Jeremiah 15:16: Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
I Peter 2:2, 3: 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The question of authority, purpose, dependability, and reliability of God’s Word should be clear to each of us. Through the leadership of the Spirit the Bible was written. Through the same leadership, we are able to learn the truths of God’s Word, teach them to others, and practice them daily. When this is done, two things can be shown to the world. First, that God’s Word is true and powerful.
Second, that this truth is practical and useful. To do this, we MUST accept the Bible as the authority in our lives and be willing to share it with others. Just as 35
the Holy Spirit guided the writing of His Word, so will He guide the believer as well.
The question is, are we willing to follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit?
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